I watched him from the cot in my jail cell. His long, elegant hand stroked his chin while he contemplated the problem of me. “I’ll be fine on my own if you want to go back.” I almost hoped he didn’t. I should want to be alone, but I found him comforting even when he was agitated. His handsome face turned toward me. “They can handle Castle without me.” He laughed bitterly. “Apparently I am not needed at all, cara mia. If the king doesn’t agree with my position, he’ll simply have me recused and vote in my stead.” The vampire walked over and sank down beside me on the cot. “I would rather stay with you. Kelsey, you have not cried. It’s fine to do so. I won’t think less of you.” I shook my head. “I don’t need to. I’m fine.” His fingers played soothingly with mine. “You don’t have to be strong.” “I’m not,” I replied. “I just don’t care.”
